End-of-life care for the elderly does not only include physical care, but also includes care for the mind, spirit , and environment, all of which affect the “peace” of the patient during the end of life. This article will help you understand how to create an atmosphere of peace in the home so that elderly patients can pass away peacefully, dignified, and full of love.
1. Understand the nature of illness and death.
Fear of death is a common emotion among terminally ill patients, especially when they feel that their time is running out. Understanding life and death, such as the Buddhist teachings of “Anicca, Dukkha, Anatta,” can help patients “let go” and prepare themselves to depart from this world mindfully.
2. Holistic pain relief
Pain management should emphasize both medication and supportive activities , such as prescribed morphine, gentle massage, and mindful stillness to relieve pain. Caregivers should be trained in pain assessment and should have basic assistance equipment, such as adjustable beds, adult diapers, and chamber pots, to make patients feel comfortable and reduce the burden on the family.
3. Arrange the home environment to create peace.
The home should be a safe, warm and peaceful place for the terminally ill patient. The room should be well-ventilated, quiet, have natural light and include something to hold onto, such as a Buddha statue, family photos, fresh flowers or soft music, to create an atmosphere of acceptance and letting go.
4. Talk from heart to heart
In their final moments, the only thing that older adults want is not to be abandoned. Simple words like “I’m here,” “I love you,” or “Don’t worry about anything” can be very comforting. Also, giving the patient an opportunity to “say what’s on their mind” or say goodbye can help ease the emotional pain.
5. Do some light activities to add value at the end.
Choosing light and creative elderly activities, such as drawing, singing old songs, listening to Dhamma, reading books, or making a living will, can help patients feel “still meaningful” even in their final stages. These activities are also tools for families to spend “quality time” together.
6. Family healing after death
After a death, caregivers and families often grieve. Understanding the nature of death and having support networks, such as bereavement groups or “grief recovery” approaches, can help loved ones move on with strength.